NERVIEST MAN IN SERVICE

The Argus (Melbourne)

Captain E. J. Smith, who is reported by one passenger from the Titanic to
have committed suicide, was commodore of the White Star line. He it was who
was selected for the initial trips of the Adriatic, the Baltic, and the
Olympic. Captain Hickson, R. N., [sic] of the Medic, who has served under
Captain Smith, described him on Wednesday, when the name of the commander
was a matter of speculation, as "the nerviest and brainiest man in the
service." He added "If Captain Smith was in command of the Titanic, then
there was a hero in charge at a time when deeds of heroism were called for."